Charles G. Brown was more than a successful businessman. He was a dedicated mentor, a loyal friend – a devoted family man who made a lasting positive impression.

That’s how Brown’s family and friends will remember the founder of APISource Inc. (asi/147450), who passed away peacefully with family by his side on Nov. 21.

“API would not exist if it were not for Charlie,” the Lanham, MD-headquartered distributorship said in a company statement. “The relationships that we have built with our clients, our suppliers, and our friends on the API team all started with him. For that, we are eternally grateful.”

Brown founded the company that would become APISource Inc. in 1965 in Maryland. Originally called Charles G. Brown Inc., the entrepreneur operated as a sole proprietorship that focused on selling emblematic jewelry. With time, however, Brown brought aboard his son, Michael, and longtime family friend Leo Boone to grow the business. The firm’s name eventually changed to APISource, and its offerings expanded to include additional products and services, including branded merchandise, screen printing and embroidery.

Over the years, APISource has earned awards from clients and industry organizations. Since 2009, the company has driven average annual revenue gains of 15% to 25%, with 2017 seeing a 40% year-over-year sales increase. “Charlie was a mentor and friend to many and kept an active role behind the scenes, for which we are all appreciative and grateful,” the company statement said.

In lieu of flowers, Brown’s family asks that donations be made to the American Cancer Society in Charlie’s memory.

Brown is survived by his loving wife, Mary, six children, Michael Brown and Sherrie (wife of Michael), Robert Brown, David Brown and Cindy (wife of David), Cindy Wendt and Pete (Husband of Cindy), Jennifer Stone and David (Husband of Jennifer), and Julie Brown. Charlie is also survived by his grandchildren: Michael, Lesley, Shelby, Hannah, Claudia, Hunter, Elliot, and Lucas. Great grandchildren are on the way. The family is currently planning a celebration of life for Brown.